Four panellists discussed their experiences as equine vets.

BEVA Unbridled has begun their series of discussions about non-clinical elements of equine work, with a session in July about work/life balance as equine veterinary surgeons.

The first session, hosted by British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) Veterinary Projects Officer Lucy Grieve, welcomed four panellists from different aspects of the equine veterinary profession to explore how their personal lives have affected their capability to work.

Lorna Brokenshire-Dyke talked about being a Masters student and mum of twins, including a child with a disability, alongside her work as an ambulatory veterinary surgeon and equine physiotherapist in equine practice.

Spike Milligan, a performance horse consultant, discussed how he balances working as an integral part of his clients’ teams with raising his family.

Natalie McGoldrick spoke about managing equine practice as a sole practitioner as well as her career as a 4-star level event rider with competition horses.

Ian Beamish, a Lambourn vet and father-of-three, spoke about balancing the demands of racing work and home life.

The informal event also raised important discussions about the needs and wants of students and new graduates, and how they might change over time as life evolves throughout adulthood.

Lucy Grieve said: “A strong take home message, which applies to everyone, not just vets, is to determine what you want,

“Each individual has a responsibility to themselves to work out what they want during the course of their life. It will likely change and adapt with age, but that focus on a goal belongs solely with the individual.
 
“What was clear from the panellists is a realisation that they wanted something, and their ability to determine ways to achieve those goals. Then they were able to create a career which worked for them and those around them. That feeling of having an aim, a purpose and autonomy over one’s future is not often there from day one, and this is not a failure. Conversely, it is how life often works.
 
“You are unlikely to know what you want, or what is realistically achievable until you have the experience required to own that knowledge. That applies to life but also work.”

The recording of the session can be found here.

The next session, titled ‘EDI isn’t a new thing’, will be held Wednesday, 16 August. The finale will be hosted live at BEVA Congress 2023, with panellists exploring the challenges and solutions to flexible working in equine practice.

To find out more or book tickets, visit the BEVA website here.

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